A client is experiencing sickle cell crisis precipitated by a right lower lobe pneumonia. The vital signs are: HR-110/min: RR-28; B/P-96/54: T-100.8 PO: Pulse Oximetry-96%. What is the best nursing action?
Maintain IV fluid infusion and assess adequacy of hydration
Provide continuous sedation for pain relief
Insert an indwelling (Foley) catheter and monitor hourly urinary output
Prepare for endotracheal intubation and ventilatory support
The Correct Answer is A
A) Maintain IV fluid infusion and assess adequacy of hydration: This is the best nursing action as adequate hydration is crucial in managing sickle cell crisis. It helps to reduce blood viscosity and prevent further sickling of red blood cells, which is especially important in the context of pneumonia, as dehydration can exacerbate the crisis.
B) Provide continuous sedation for pain relief: While managing pain is essential, continuous sedation is not the most appropriate first step in this situation. Pain management should be addressed, but hydration and treating the underlying causes (like pneumonia) take priority.
C) Insert an indwelling (Foley) catheter and monitor hourly urinary output: While monitoring urinary output can be important, it is not the most immediate action in this case. Focus should be on hydration and addressing the sickle cell crisis rather than on urinary output at this time.
D) Prepare for endotracheal intubation and ventilatory support: Although respiratory distress is a concern with pneumonia, the current pulse oximetry reading of 96% indicates adequate oxygenation at this time. Preparing for intubation should not be the first action unless the patient shows signs of respiratory failure or severe distress.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Tinnitus: While tinnitus can be concerning, it is not a classic side effect of digoxin. It may indicate other issues such as hearing problems or medication interactions, but it does not typically warrant immediate communication with the healthcare provider in the context of digoxin use.
B) Constipation: Although constipation can occur in some patients taking digoxin, it is generally not considered a critical side effect that requires urgent attention. Patients are encouraged to manage this symptom through dietary changes or over-the-counter remedies unless it becomes severe.
C) Visual disturbances: Experiencing visual disturbances, such as seeing halos around lights or blurred vision, can be a sign of digoxin toxicity. Since these symptoms can indicate an elevated level of the drug in the bloodstream, it is crucial for the patient to contact their healthcare provider promptly to assess the situation and prevent further complications.
D) Vertigo: While vertigo can occur in various medical conditions and may be a side effect of other medications, it is not specifically linked to digoxin. If a patient experiences vertigo, they should monitor it but are not necessarily required to contact their healthcare provider immediately unless it is severe or persistent.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Remove the patch if a headache develops: While headaches can be a side effect of clonidine, removing the patch is not the recommended immediate action without further assessment. The patient should be advised to consult with their healthcare provider if they experience significant side effects.
B. Monitor weight on a daily basis: While weight monitoring is important for some medications, it is not a specific recommendation for clonidine. Patients should be informed to monitor for signs of fluid retention or significant weight changes, but daily weight monitoring is not typically required.
C. Place the patch on the anterior chest: The clonidine patch should be placed on a hairless area of skin, typically on the upper arm or chest, but the anterior chest is not specific enough. Patients should be instructed to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper placement.
D. Remove the patch as directed and inspect the skin: This is the best discharge instruction. Patients should be informed to remove the patch according to the prescribed schedule and to inspect the skin for any irritation or allergic reactions. Regular skin checks are important to prevent any adverse reactions from prolonged patch use.
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